Lorenzo Finn Claims Second Consecutive Gold at UCI Road World Championships

Italian cyclist Lorenzo Finn has claimed the gold medal in the Under-23 category at the UCI Road World Championships currently being held in Kigali, Rwanda. The 18-year-old from Genoa, who previously held the title of junior world champion, demonstrated his prowess on the challenging streets of the Rwandan capital. Following his victorious performance, Finn expressed overwhelming joy, stating, "An incredible feeling, just like last year." He dedicated his win to his girlfriend, Fabiana, emphasizing, "This is for her." Finn elaborated on his racing strategy, explaining, "The initial plan was to see what Belgium would do." The race’s first half was characterized by a controlled pace, but significant changes occurred when competitors hit the cobblestone sections. "We immediately made a difference," he noted, highlighting a shift in dynamics during the race. Initially, six cyclists broke away from the pack, which eventually dwindled down to four and then two, with Finn racing alongside Swiss competitor Huber. As he entered the final lap, Finn executed a decisive attack that allowed him to break away and clinch yet another remarkable victory. "By the end, my ears were hurting from the great enthusiasm I felt on the final straight," he recounted. Reflecting on his achievement, Finn stated, "This is my second consecutive world championship. I celebrated with a gesture of the arrow pointing at the target," a move he had previously discussed with fellow cyclist Borgo, indicating a friendly pact between them to celebrate should one secure a win. Commenting on Finn's achievement, the President of the Italian Cycling Federation Cordiano Dagnoni remarked, "It's a much-desired, hoped-for victory—a success that rewards the team's hard work. It’s a well-deserved reward for the entire group." Looking forward, Dagnoni expressed confidence in Finn's future, stating, "Finn will be our future. He's a serious, humble athlete. I’m confident Finn will be a key player at the 2031 World Championships in Trentino, and also before that at the 2028 Olympics." As the cycling event progresses, Dagnoni concluded with an optimistic note on the potential of the Italian cycling team, stating, "We have a great group, and he will be a motivation for everyone else. Starting tomorrow, in the men's and women's events, because the appetite comes with eating." Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2